Cambridgeshire Police Federation chair Liz Groom is urging members to take part in the Federation elections, with the process starting at the end of this month.
Liz said the elections give members the opportunity to put themselves forward as workplace reps to represent and support their colleagues, but also help bring about change within the Federation and the Force.
Successful candidates become part of their local Branch Council. From there, they can stand to be on the local Branch Board, then stand for a regional or a national role if they wish.
“Being a Federation representative can be a demanding role, you are often supporting people through difficult times in their careers and their lives,” said Liz.
“But the role is also very rewarding. It’s good to know that you have been able to support someone by seeing them through a challenging time and out the other side.
“The police service is currently facing a crisis so now more than ever we need a strong and effective Police Federation to give members a voice and help drive change.
“Full training is given to all workplace representatives through an initial new reps’ course, but there is then the opportunity to specialise in key areas of the Federation’s work so there are courses covering conduct, equality, and health and safety.
“This training, of course, can then be useful in a rep’s ‘day’ job and can help with career development.”
Liz said even if members decide not to stand for election they should make sure they vote for those who do put themselves forward.
“I really hope that all members take the time to find out about the candidates and cast their vote. Federation reps give our members a voice so please make sure you engage in the elections and, at the very least, vote for those you want to represent you,” said Liz.
The nationwide election process starts on 30 December when nominations open for workplace representatives and will be complete by 1 October 2025 when the new National Board will be in place.
The Force’s constables, sergeants and inspecting ranks, as well as Specials, can stand in the local workplace representative elections. Federation branches across the country are making a special plea to members from under-represented groups to consider putting themselves forward to become reps to help better reflect the diversity of the membership.
Information on the first round of elections for workplace reps, including how to self-nominate and how to vote, will be emailed to all members. Find out more about the role of a workplace rep.
If you want to find out more about becoming a representative, you can also contact your local workplace rep or the Federation office.
Using an electronic voting system, members can vote for their local workplace reps early next year, then their local chair and, next summer, the national chair.
Each of the 43 police forces in England and Wales has a Federation Branch Council made up of all the workplace reps for that force. From the Branch Council, an executive – the Branch Board – is elected, including a secretary and treasurer. Other lead roles include equality, health and safety, and conduct and performance.
Nominations for workplace representatives are open from 30 December until 24 January, with voting take place from 3 to 23 February and the results being announced on 27 February. Voting for the local branch chair takes place in May next year.
Read more about the elections on Page 3 of our winter members’ magazine Fedline.